Exploring Uganda
Cuisine
Like elsewhere in Africa, Ugandan cuisine is regional in nature—with differences as varied as the land itself. Food in Uganda Africa, consists of an interesting mix of traditional and modern Ugandan cooking styles, with English, Arab, and Asian influences. It's not uncommon to find foods and drinks such as English tea and Asian chapati making regular appearances at the food table.
Meat stews are popular in Uganda and are most often served with rice, chapati, ugali (a typical African maize porridge), and Ugandan matoke—a cooked and mashed mix of plantain and banana. Groundnuts are popular too, as is sesame, which is made into sweets and pastes. Seasonal delicacies such as grasshoppers (Nsenene) and even white ants (Nswaa) are also part of the rich cultures in Uganda.
Etiquette
Taxis (look for “special hire”) and boda bodas don't usually expect tips, but make sure you get a quote for the full price of your trip up front to avoid any unexpected price hikes. Waiting staff in restaurants throughout Uganda, on the other hand, do expect a tip—10% or more is quite normal where there are no service charges and where the service was good. Drivers, guides, and hotel staff are best tipped at the end of your stay, ride, or tour. A few £/$ (in Ugandan shillings) per person or per bag per day is generally considered quite reasonable and respectful of Ugandan etiquette.
Most Ugandans dress casually, so do the same. Dress respectably when visiting places of worship, and aim for middle-of-the-road, relaxed clothes for everyday wear. Don’t show too much skin, and avoid wearing anything that draws excessive attention to your body—whether through revealing clothing or eye-catching jewelry. Respecting these norms is an important aspect of understanding and participating in the cultures in Uganda.
